For anyone considering contact lenses in Glendale Heights, a common question arises: Can you order contacts with only your glasses prescription? This is an important issue for local residents who want an easy transition into contacts. At iDoctor, we believe it’s crucial to understand the difference, the legal regulations involved, and your safest, most streamlined route to clear vision—whether you are coming from Bloomingdale, Glen Ellyn, or right here in Glendale Heights. As a local eye doctor in Glendale Heights, we’re here to make the process transparent and personalized.
What’s the Real Difference: Glasses Prescription vs. Contact Lens Prescription?
A glasses prescription is not the same as a contact lens prescription—and it cannot legally be used to order contacts. The main reason is the way these products interact with your eyes. Glasses sit several millimeters in front of your cornea, while contacts rest directly on its surface. This means the measurements must be much more precise, accounting for the shape, curvature, size, and health of your eye.
A valid contact lens prescription includes key details your glasses prescription never requires:
- Lens power unique to contacts (not always the same as your glasses)
- Base curve and diameter for your corneal shape
- Manufacturer or brand
- Expiration date (usually one year in Illinois)
- Sometimes additional notes for astigmatism (toric lenses) or multifocals
Federal law, specifically the Fairness to Contact Lens Consumers Act and FTC Contact Lens Rule, requires that a detailed contact lens exam and fitting occur before issuing a prescription. Only then can you safely purchase contact lenses—from any retailer you choose. For a complete breakdown of lenses and how prescriptions are written, read our detailed guide: Sphere, Cylinder, Axis, Add: A Simple Guide to Reading Your Eye Prescription.
Local Benefits: Why Contact Lens Exams Matter in Glendale Heights
At iDoctor, we are committed to precise, comfort-driven care. When you schedule a contact lens exam in our Glendale Heights practice—located near Jewel-Osco and minutes from Lombard and Addison—you benefit from:
- Advanced diagnostics: Digital phoropters, optikam measurements, high-resolution retinal imaging for a comprehensive assessment.
- Personalized fittings: We ensure contacts match your eye’s curvature and health, minimizing dryness or blurry vision.
- Contact lens variety: Choices from Acuvue, Biofinity, DAILIES, Air Optix, MyDay, Ultra, toric for astigmatism, and multifocals.
- All major insurances accepted: VSP, Eyemed, Cigna, Superior Vision, Humana, Davis Vision, NVA, Spectera, and UnitedHealthcare Vision—plus value packages for those uninsured.
- Immediate or next-day appointments: Fast scheduling, including for first-time wearers or those with complex needs.
Our unique approach is driven by Dr. Saher Sayed’s expertise and our boutique team’s focus on comfort and results. Located on E. Army Trail Rd., our office offers easy parking and is just off major routes from Carol Stream and Glen Ellyn, making consistent care accessible and stress-free.
I’ve never had an eye doctor explain everything so clearly or fit my contacts so perfectly. I finally see clearly without discomfort. — iDoctor patient
FAQ: Contact Lens Prescriptions in Glendale Heights
Can I use my glasses prescription to order contact lenses?
No. Federal law requires a separate contact lens prescription, issued only after a professional fitting and health assessment. Glasses lack base curve and diameter—key for contacts.
How long is a contact lens prescription valid?
Most are valid for 1 year in Illinois. An annual re-exam is required to renew for continuing eye health and vision changes.
Are same-day contact lens appointments available?
Yes. At iDoctor, most days we can book you for a comprehensive fitting and get you started with a trial lens on the same or next day.
What insurances are accepted for contact lens exams and prescriptions?
We accept VSP, Eyemed, Cigna, Superior Vision, Humana, Davis Vision, NVA, Spectera, and UnitedHealthcare Vision. We verify your benefits ahead of the appointment for peace of mind.
Is parking and access convenient?
Absolutely. We are easy to find just past Jewel-Osco on Army Trail Rd. in Glendale Heights with abundant free parking. Patients from Bloomingdale, Addison, and Wheaton are minutes away.
How to Book Your Contact Lens Fitting with iDoctor
Choosing your contact lenses is about long-term comfort, eye health, and protection under the law. If you’re converting from glasses in Glendale Heights, you’ll need a dedicated contact lens exam and prescription. We make it easy—just call, text, or use our online scheduling.
- Book by phone: (630) 454-6899
- Book online: Glendale Heights contact lens booking
- Walk-ins for urgent needs are welcome during business hours: Mon 9-5, Tue/Wed 10-3, Thu/Fri 9-5
Still curious about prescription differences or shopping for contacts online? For a deeper dive on why contact and glasses prescriptions do not convert directly—and what can go wrong if you try—see our detailed article: Why Your Contact Lens Rx Isn’t the Same as Your Glasses Prescription.
As always, our patient-first team is happy to answer your questions—whether you’re near Stratford Square Mall, coming from Wheaton, or are new to our Glendale Heights community. We’re proud to combine local convenience, luxury options, advanced technology, and truly personalized care.
Ready for your vision transformation? Let’s make sure you’re seeing—and living—your best.
